10 Greatest War Films

These greatest war films ever made will probably not surprise you. These classic tales of the emotional impact and true horrors of war are bound to touch the hearts and minds of audiences for generations to come. These war films have already been around for many years.

“The Best Years of Our Lives” This is one of the greatest war films because it shows audiences how World War II changed not only the lives of the soldiers, but everyone who was connected to the war. It stars Fredric March and Dana Andrews.

“The Great Escape” Set during World War II, this great war film tells the story of prisoners of war planning an escape from a German camp. It stars Steve McQueen and was released in 1963.

“Saving Private Ryan” Directed by Steven Spielberg, the story starts after the Normandy Landing and follows U.S. soldiers as they desperately search for Private Ryan. Without him, his mother will be left with no husband or living children.

“Casablanca” An unforgettable love story set during World War II, this film depicts a romance that takes place in unoccupied Africa. The starring roles are played by Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart.

“Apocalypse Now” The first Vietnam war flick on the list of greatest war films, this story an assassination mission of a rebel Green Beret. It was directed by the great Francis Ford Coppola.

“Full Metal Jacket” Another great Vietnam film, “Full Metal Jacket” was directed by Stanley Kubrick and stars Matthew Modine. It shows the audiences the cruelties of war and the emotional effects it has on soldiers.

“Devils on the Doorstep” Directed by Wen Jiang, this story is about a town who must keep two prisoners until they can be relocated. The setting of the film takes place during the Japanese occupation of China and what the audience learns about this time period won’t soon be forgotten.

“Gone with the Wind” The only Civil War movie on the list, this unforgettable classic tale is about two lovers played by Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh. Their unrequited love during and after the war are perfectly portrayed in this great war film.

“All Quiet on the Western Front” Representing World War I on the list, Lewis Milestone directed this 1930 classic film. The story revolves around a young man who suffers severe psychological trauma from what he witnesses in the war.

“Ballad of a Soldier” Set during World War II, this is one of the greatest war films because it’s as much as a war story as it is a love story. The audience gets a special glimpse into the mind and emotional state of a young World War II soldier.